BUTTE — Miner Union Day used to be a major celebration in Butte. However, it has quieted down over the years. Despite this, there is still an opportunity to commemorate the event, and organizers believe that Butte should once again make it a significant occasion.
“Why wouldn’t you? Come out and celebrate, it’s free admission, to honor the accomplishments of your ancestors,” said Kim Murphy Kohn, Assistant Director of the World Museum of Mining.
The World Museum of Mining will be hosting the event, which will include games, food, and tours showcasing Butte’s mining history.
“We offer free admission all day, operating from 9:30 to 5, with reduced-rate underground tours—the lowest price for underground tours all year,” stated Jeanette Kopf, Executive Director.
Miners Union Day originated as a protest march by striking miners in Butte on June 13, 1878.
“About 400 miners marched to protest a wage decrease at the Alice and Lexington silver mines,” explained Kohn.
The protest led to the creation of a strong union and evolved into an annual celebration where miners would take the day off for a parade and various festivities.
“Here in Butte, they really went all out. They organized baseball games, sack races, egg races, and many other fun activities,” Kohn added.
Many believe that the unions played a crucial role in improving wages and safety conditions in the industry.
“In Butte, due to the high level of unionization, we did not employ children in the mines as seen in other parts of the country. That’s one of my favorite aspects,” she remarked.
While the celebration may have dwindled in size, residents are encouraged to participate.
“Come and discover the history, explore the streets, take a tour, and see what shaped Butte. Mining is what built Butte,” said Kopf.
The event will take place on Saturday, June 15 at the museum, situated just west of the Montana Tech Campus.
